Cancer charity calls for openness on breast cancer

Cancer Research UK has called for women to be better educated about breast cancer, after a new survey indicated greater openness can help to boost early detection and survival rates.

According to a study commissioned by the charity and published in the British Journal of Cancer this week, informing individuals about the symptoms of the disease can encourage them to consult with doctors over any concerns.

The report found 21 per cent women who had participated in the Promoting Early Presentation (PEP) scheme were better educated about breast cancer, as opposed to six per cent of those who had not.

"It may take many years for breast cancer symptoms to develop so it's encouraging to see that the PEP helps women maintain the knowledge to detect symptoms and see their doctor," said lead author Dr Lindsay Forbes.

Earlier this week, the group's Cambridge Research Institute suggested prostate cancer medication could be used to successfully treat some forms of breast cancer.